Effect of the Mean Size of Fine Intermetallic Compounds on the Strength Property of Sintered Magnesium Alloy by Gas Atomization

Abstract

Magnesium is promising as a light weight material because its density is lower than that of aluminum. In order to enhance this advantage, various alloying elements have been studied. However, embrittlement caused by the simple addition of alloying elements is problematic. In this study, an atomized powder obtained by adding an element to improve the properties of the magnesium was prepared, then sintered by pulse current pressure. The strength property of magnesium sintered compacts was assessed by a transverse rupture test. Based on the results of the transverse rupture test and microstructure observations, the effect of the mean size of the intermetallic compounds on the strength and ductility was discussed. KEY WORDSpowder metallurgy, magnesium, transverse rupture strength, intermetallic compound